Mss Eur F699/1/1/2/2

Copies of letters from Governor General Charles Canning to Elliot Macnaughten, Colonel William H. Sykes, Ross D. Mangles & Sir Frederick Currie. Numbered 1-56 with index.

1. Copy letter to E Macnaghten, 8 Mar 1856. Canning has received Macnaghten's letter of congratulation. He has been sworn into office, and has since been very busy. He has attended Council for the first time, and is sure that his relations with his colleagues will be good. The Legislative Council has met, but Canning did not attend owing to the outgoing mail. Has not had time to consider the Legislative Council fully, but believes that by the Act of 1853 it was made quite independent of the Court and of the Governor General, and from that position only an Act of Parliament can remove it. Canning does not think such a measure is advisable, but it is the only way if the Legislative Council is to be deposed. Will consider the workings of that body; the duties of the President do not seem to match very well with those of Governor General. Has sent separately some papers on Persia and Herat. Murray does not seem to be careful of Anglo-Indian interests, but by the last rumours Murray is leaving Teheran for the west. All is quiet in Oudh, no signs of mischief brewing. The King insists on coming to Calcutta. Private.

2. Copy letter to E Macnaghten, 22 Mar 1856. Canning is still somewhat confused by all the work which reaches him. Wishes Dalhousie had been able to announce the three Indian KCBs himself, though the small honour given to General Cubbon would have disappointed him. All is quiet in Oudh. The King has left Lucknow and reached Cawnpore, where he awaits his Minister, detained on Government business in Lucknow. Does not believe the King will go to England, or even to Calcutta. The Governor General will not receive him, though he is paid every ordinary honour. Macnaghten's son has passed in his first language with marked proficiency.

3. Copy letter to E Macnaghten, 8 Apr 1856. Canning will be glad to hear the opinion of the Law officers of the Crown on the authority of the Legislative Council. Approves of the Despatches on Sonthal affairs, and on barrack accommodation for married European soldiers. Awaits instructions anxiously on Persian affairs, and on finance, especially loans for Public Works. Urges the importance of continuing the Public Works. Has asked for additional officers in each European and native Infantry Regiment the matter is urgent. He may have to ask for a larger number of Captains. The Secretary of the Examining Board speaks highly of Macnaghten's son, Canning has tried to encourage him in his work. Canning's horses have arrived in excellent condition, but the stables of Government House are in a bad state.

4. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 30 Apr 1856. Canning apologises for not replying to Sykes letter before. Is aware of the inconvenience and danger of the continuous and increasing drain of officers from their Regiments, made worse by the necessities of Oudh. Canning has sent a Despatch asking for two additional Ensigns for each Regiment, is not sure whether this will be enough, but needs time to look into the whole question of Army reform. Comments on Mr Sanders scheme for a screw-pile pier at Madras. Has not seen yet the Despatch on mortality in the jails of Bengal, but has seen a Report of 1854-55 and discussed the subject. The mortality is lower than Colonel Sykes believed. The general average mortality is just over 7% in Bengal, Behar and Orissa. Agrees that an efficient Police is needed, especially in Bengal. Tracts larger than an English county with barely 20 policemen; and men with the duties of a Magistrate receiving 7 Rupees a month. If this was known in Parliament, there would be a great stir: Oudh is thoroughly quiet, Canning sees no reason to suppose that it will not continue so. General Outram has reached Calcutta, broken and quite unfit for work. Canning does not expect to see him return to India when his leave is up. Arrangements to fill his place are not yet made. Asks the Court to help Lieutenant Colonel Napier, Chief Engineer in the Punjab, to inspect engineering projects and appliances in England. Also recommends Major Apperley, Deputy Superintendent in the Stud Establishment, and suggests that he be allowed to buy stallions in England for the Stud. Private. Postscript: by marking his letter 'Private' Canning does not mean that only Sykes may read it, in this case he would have marked the letter 'Confidential'. A 'Private' letter may be used at Sykes discretion. Lady Canning thanks Colonel Sykes for his kind message. Bombay is far ahead of Calcutta in photography, as in many other things.

5. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 3 May 1856. Canning is sending separately a Despatch on the financial position of the Government of India, including an estimate for 1856-57. The estimate is very imperfect because the Government of India does not know whether a loan is to be raised for Public Works. Urges the importance of continuing Public Works. Asks the Court to consider the practice of drawing of Bills upon the Indian Government, which the Court does at will. Asks for some regular system of drawing money, in 1855 nearly 2 million were called for without a day's warning. Mr Coverley Jackson is to act for Sir James Outram in Oudh. Private.

6. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 17 May 1856. Canning is sending separately news from Herat, which will probably lead to trouble. Dost Mahomed evidently wishes the Government of India to join in. It looks as if the Persians will soon take Herat. Canning has not received a Financial Despatch from the Court, so is sending his official letter on the drawings of the Court. Canning thinks that Sykes had been unduly hard upon the military arrangements for the Sonthal affair; a large force was ready to act. Canning has nothing to say upon the question of martial law. Private.

7. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 3 Jul 1856. Canning will hurry up the Madras Pier scheme, wishes the Government could better afford the 9 lacs. Has sent separately a Minute on the Commander in Chief's proposed tour of inspection, a question in which Canning has disagreed with his colleagues in the Council. Sykes suggestion of the 10 skeleton Regiments is new, Canning will consider it. Private.

8. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 3 Jul 1856. Canning is sure that Lord Dalhousie will have given an accurate report of the differences between Messrs Halliday and Grant. They are embarrassing and discreditable, especially as they are observed by the people at large. Nevertheless Canning does not anticipate serious injury to public business. There was trouble over the appointment of Mr Money to the Bench, and similar cases may occur, but Canning thinks the tendency to irritation will diminish in time. Canning does not think the removal of the Government of Bengal to Moorshedabad would help, it would certainly increase the great slowness with which business which has to pass through the two administrations was done. The change would also be a slight upon the Lieutenant Governor The remedy is time. Canning disapproves of so much business being done by Minutes. Written in an informal style, the Minutes are often turned into a letter's shape keeping their original tone, and sent out to give offence to Local Governments and authorities. Minute writing is also very slow. Private.

9. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 17 Jul 1856. Canning hopes the measures for advancing the Geological Survey of India, and for the establishment of an Indian Museum of Geology in Calcutta, will be approved. Mr Oldham is an excellent officer, worth more than the salary suggested. Hopes the Court will agree to augment the establishment of the Calcutta Mint, which has been grossly over-worked for many months. The Mint is not able to make copper currency, which is greatly wanted. At the moment, in Calcutta itself, change for a Rupee or for any small silver coin, is a thing which must be bought, and in the interior it is common for a poor man to prefer a small payment in copper to a larger one in silver, on account of the great difficulty of converting the silver coin into smaller coins. Urges the importance of increasing the number of officers in the Bengal Army; agrees that they should be two Captains, or one Captain one Lieutenant for each regiment. Gives the cost; 80 Captains and 80 Lieutenants would cost about £65,000 a year. Comments on the cost of the scheme of 10 skeleton regiments, and on the cost of adding officers to Regiments in all three Presidencies. Additional officers would be more use to the Government of India than skeleton regiments, because the Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels and Majors of the skeleton regiments would be no use. Does not think the plan of sending officers from the skeleton regiments to do duty with shorthanded regiments would be successful. Is glad the Court's Financial Despatch is coming. Private.

10. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Aug 1856. Canning supports Ricketts wish to complete his task of revision of Civil salaries, in spite of the fact that he may be appointed to the Council. Canning and Ricketts do not agree as to the means by which this is to be done, but if Ricketts proposal appears unsuitable, asks that he may take his seat in Council and then be ordered to complete his work. Hopes Sykes will not be alarmed by the General Order altering the system of enlistment in the Bengal Army. It is very inconvenient to have only 6 Regiments out of 74 for General Service. The Bombay Army recruits unreservedly for General Service, and largely in the same districts and among the same people as the Bengal Army. The relief of the Regiments in Pegu [Burma] has emphasised the difficulty, though it has now been decided that the Province should be soldiered by the Madras Army. The change in the whole Bengal Army by accepting recruits for General Service only will be very slow, but there may be chances of hastening the process. A general reduction in the rank and file of the regiments would give a chance for keeping preferably those would volunteer for General Service. The Financial Despatch has arrived. Canning hears bad accounts of General Low's health. Private.

11. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 22 Aug 1856. Canning has received the Despatch of the Secret Committee of 10 Jul with authority to act in the matter of Herat. Muskets have been ordered to be sent up to the Amir, and also 5 lacs of Rupees. Canning is strongly opposed to the plan of sending British officers to aid in the defence of Herat. The risk would be enormous and the chance of benefit very small. Nothing is known of the interior of Herat, except that they have been quarrelling among themselves, that they are habitually jealous of the presence of Europeans, and that they are hard pressed by famine. The Amir could grant no adequate protection to officers in Afghanistan, even his own Lieutenant Governor dare not send back the British native envoy who carried up the ratifications of the Treaty to the Amir. Is glad of the Despatch because it clears up the false position between the Government of India and the Amir; the Government of India could not honestly subsidise the Amir whilst the Queen's Government was willing to make peace with Persia. Does not think there will be disasters in Afghanistan, nor great expenditure. 5,000 men could take Bushire without trouble, but for a march upon Shiraz a much larger force would be needed. Regrets that there should be so much hesitation in increasing the number of officers with Regiments in India. Private.

12. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 22 Sep 1856. Canning is glad to hear that the Police Despatch is coming, and hopes to deal with the question immediately. It would have already been settled by the Government of India but for the announcement of the scheme coming from England. Is doubtful whether the scheme will be suitable for Bengal. Preparations have been made to make the Force for the Persian Gulf ready by the end of Sep, fears the Secret Committee may delay sending instructions. Thanks Sykes for taking up the copper coinage question so promptly, it causes real hardship. Has heard nothing from Madras about the Pier. The work will not be as difficult as building the Lighthouse on the Basses. Asks Sykes to aid Lieutenant Fraser who is to construct the Lighthouse on the Alquada Reef. The Loan is going on slowly, it has raised little more than 30,000 Rupees as yet, and is attacked in the Press. Hopes the form of the loan will be approved. Private.

13. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Oct 1856. Canning is very glad to hear of the increase in the number of regimental officers, and is well contented with one Captain and one Lieutenant per regiment. Together with the despatch of the successful examination candidates before their time, this will relieve the situation. The Police Despatch is still awaited. The financial estimate shows an improved cash balance, but also the expected cost of the Persian Expedition to be 52 lacs, up to April. Orders from the Secret Committee will not reach Bombay before 23 Oct and Canning fears that everything will be ready well before that date. Urges Sykes to read the paper by Captain Jones and Dr Macalister on Bushire and the surrounding country. It is not encouraging about the chance of moving an Indian Army upon Shiraz. Asks if anything is known of Duleep Sing's correspondence with his mother, and who might have suggested he wrote to her in Nepal. Canning has considered the application of photography to pensioners under Government, but at the moment there is no Government photographer.

14. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 21 Oct 1856. Canning states that outward appearances in the Halliday-Grant quarrel are much the same as before, they do not speak when they meet. Officially and practically there is an improvement, Grant no longer attacks the Lieutenant Governor's proceedings and proposals so violently. Canning has encouraged discussion of the Lieutenant Governor's important measures, in place of Minute-writing. Has no idea if they will ever be brought together again. Confidential. For Sykes eyes only.

15. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 21 Oct 1856. Canning reports slowness of the mail by the 'Oriental'. Canning has received further information from Captain Jones about the Persian Gulf; the Governor General is convinced he did not overrate the force necessary to advance into the interior of Persia when he increased the amount suggested from 5,000 to 15,000, but fears he has not provided for sufficient Europeans. No more Europeans can be spared from India, asks for troops from England before any advance takes place in Persia. Will send a Minute. The Loan goes on slowly. The Civil Engineering College will begin work in Nov and the University Bill comes before the Legislative Council in the next two weeks All is quiet in Oudh. After great forbearance Canning has been obliged to propose that emigration to Mauritius shall be entirely stopped at once. Private.

16. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Nov 1856. Canning sends a copy of the Proclamation of war with Persia (not annexed). The Proclamation will arrive in Bombay before the last Division of the Expedition is ready for sea, on the 11th. Has not yet sent the Minute referred to in his last letter, as the orders of the Secret Committee said nothing of operations in the interior. Canning cannot comply with Sykes requirements about the number of officers to be retained with their regiments after the augmentation is made, without grievously and unjustly curtailing leave. Lieutenant Sykes is appointed to command his Oudh regiment

17. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Dec 1856. Canning reports that Herat has fallen, little is known of the event. The Amir has sent a letter he received from Herat, and that is the sole authority for the news. There was no fighting in the end the Persians walked in quietly, the place was betrayed by Essan Khan. Canning will not propose sending an Army to retake Herat, anything done in Afghanistan will be by the Amir, the Governor General does not expect much from him. A meeting has been arranged with the Dost on the Frontier. It is impossible that the Dost should retake Herat, but he may harass the Persian Garrison and the troops on the Frontier, and he may drive them from the neighbourhood of Furrah and guard the road to Kandahar. For this he should have aid from the Government of India. The Dost may also ask if he may keep Herat if he captures it, and Canning thinks this should be granted; he has no belief in the independence of Herat. Kabul has a better right to support Herat than Teheran. Colonel Hennell's suggestions for operations in the Gulf are good, and agree with some already made by Commander Jones; they have been passed on to General Stalker, who is to make inquiries about Mohummerah. If Shuster is to be aimed at, Mohummerah must come first. It is difficult to know which place to attack. General Outram has offered his services for the Persian Expedition. There seems no chance of a combined political and military leader being needed on the Expedition, there are no high Persian authorities in that part of the country, and if overtures are made from Teheran, they will probably be addressed to London, through some friendly power. Should negotiations be opened with the General, he is to refer them to the Government of India. Commander Jones has been attached to General Stalker, nominally as a Political Agent, but really to advise on the tribes of the Gulf and local interests general. Lord Canning does not propose to accept Outram's offer, is glad not to be tempted to do so, for he is grievously wanted at Lucknow, where Coverley Jackson would have exhausted the Governor General's patience had he not been about to be relieved. Canning has never seen equalled Jackson's facility for quarrelling with everyone and putting himself in the wrong. The Gaekwar is dead, having done his best to accomplish this with gin. A more decent living brother succeeds, he may be less easy to manage by the Resident. Asks for more steamers for the Bay of Bengal. Private.

18. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 23 Dec 1856. No news has come from the Persian Gulf. Sykes will have particulars of the little war Sir John Bowring has got up in China, not a very necessary war. He has asked for a Queen's Regiment from India, which cannot be spared, but the Resident at Singapore has volunteered to send 500 men of a Madras Regiment from the Straits in case there should be trouble at Hong Kong. The Amir should be at Peshawur to meet Sir John Lawrence about Christmas Day. Has written to the President protesting against interference in Afghanistan. Will write again on Police. Private and Confidential.

19. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Jan 1857. Canning has not been able to send off the Police Minute, because during the last week Persia has over-ridden everything. Arrangements for Outram's command are in train, and Bushire has fallen. The capture was easy, no appreciable damage was done to private property, and no non-combatants were injured. All seems friendly, though if it is true that five chiefs were killed at Reshire the Force will not easily be forgiven. Stalker's Despatch is simple and modest. Canning wishes he had not named so many officers in it, because the Governor General has had to omit all except for Commanders in his Notification. Two errors were made at Bushire, the lack of boats for the landing, which will be investigated, and the want of tents, baggage and almost all other necessities for more than two days. The whole of the naval arrangements have shown great want of method, when there is anything more to be done by sea, the Naval Commander in Chief shall stay at home. Great blame is put upon Sir Henry Leeke by Major Hill, the Chief Engineer and others for failing to send the gunboats to the east of the town by the creek. Certainly Leeke should have done what he had promised to do, or should have shown good reason why not, but Canning is not convinced that this manoeuvre would have gained anything. Is glad General Stalker has been successful, it may make his super-cession less disagreeable to him. Stalker's letters do not inspire confidence in Canning.

20. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Jan 1857. Canning has received the papers about the appointment of General Outram. Thanks Sykes for speaking of the Despatch of the Secret Committee as a 'recommendation'. Canning agrees that when more extensive operations begin, the post of negotiator and general should be combined. He would not have chosen Outram, because of his health. Praises Outram's plans for future operations in Persia. Thinks Outram's diplomatic instructions too stringent and detailed, as laid down by the Foreign Office. Canning, presumes that the Government of India is to be left in complete control of military questions. Describes the formation of the 2nd Division., will try to see that Outram's position in Oudh is not lost by the Persian Expedition, but Oudh cannot be left much longer without a permanent Chief Commissioner. Compliments the Courts on the speed with which winter clothing was sent for the Expedition. Asks for a steamer. Canning does not understand what Sir J Login means about the Maharajah's letter; it was not sent to any servant but to the Maharani, through the post. Canning will look into the delay in the Bengal Trade Returns.

21. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 23 Jan 1857. Canning replies that Lieutenant Sykes is quite right to go on active service, he will not be forgotten when peace returns. Canning admires Sykes determination that 6,000 men are enough to march up and down Persia, but is glad that Sykes has not persuaded Outram to share his views.

22. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 23 Jan 1857. Canning reports that it has been necessary to close the 4 ½ % Loan and open a 5% Loan. The rising rate of interest, the fall in opium, and the drawings of the Court of nearly half a million make the step necessary. Two courses were possible, to offer 5% or to accept 4% paper as half payment. The former was decided upon after debate.

23. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 23 Jan 1857. Canning thanks Sykes for the considerate way in which he pointed out the Governor General's error over the command of the Naval Force. Canning acted on semi-official information from Bombay that there was no impediment to Sir Henry Leeke's appointment. He chose Leeke because nearly all the Indian Navy was to be sent to the Gulf. If Ethersey could have been retained in command, Canning would not have sent any superior officer. Failing Leeke, Captain Powell would have taken command of the Force from Bombay, and Canning was told that Powell would be less likely to defer to the judgment of Ethersey as his 2nd in command than Leeke. This has not proved true. Canning is glad that the expenses of the war are to be shared by the Queen's Government. Canning knew that General Outram favoured operations against Herat from India, if the Persian Expedition failed in its object, and the Governor General made his own views known. Sends the rough draft of the Articles agreed upon between the Government of India and the Amir, as yet known only by telegraph (marked in margin Telegraph Messages Received 6). The British negotiators wished to know what and by what means the Amir could do anything against Herat, and what aid he would need from India; and if this was beyond his power, as Canning always believed, what aid would be needed to make the Amir's frontier safe against further inroad from Persia. The larger scheme of supporting the Amir to retake Herat was dismissed, owing to the disproportionate cost to the Government of India. It was agreed that the Government of India pay the Amir 1 lac a month, the Amir keeping up a certain force. English officers are to be sent to Kandahar, Kabul, Balkh, or elsewhere and permanent Vakeels are to be exchanged. At present only Major Lumsden and his brother will be sent to Kandahar. The subsidy is to last so long as the British Government is at war with Persia, or until the Governor General shall direct otherwise. The border tribes are forgiven past aggressions. 4,000 muskets more are to be supplied to the Amir. Hopes that this agreement will improve relations with the Amir, it is less one-sided that the Treaty of 1855, answers the many appeals of the Amir in 1856, and should prevent any further inroads by Persia. General Outram is considering abandoning the advance upon Kisht, and halting at Shuster, if the report of the gathering of Persian troops near Bushire is true. Canning thinks Outram is right. The Governor General has been unable to send the Scind Horse to Persia, convinced by the remonstrances of General Jacob. Cannot make Havelock a Major General, but a Brigadier General. Asks for more European regiments for the Bengal Division for next autumn's operations. Colonel Ramsay, the Commissary General is to go home on sick leave, he is a great loss. Canning will be glad to see Mr Loftus, he has not yet met anyone who has been to Shuster. Canning is very surprised to hear that Dhuleep Sing's letter to his mother is a forgery, for what purpose can it have been forged? Sir John Login's behaviour in the affair seems very odd.

24. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Feb 1857. Canning is sorry to hear he has displeased the jurists, he is not sure whether his fault is in issuing a Proclamation of War, or in issuing it without the authority of the Secret Committee. Defends his action. The Proclamation refers several times to instructions from the British Government and does not imply that the Governor General has the power to declare war. Admits that he had no instructions from the Secret Committee to issue the Proclamation, but could not allow the Expedition to sail without a word of explanation. Has heard of demonstrations at Newcastle, Bradford and elsewhere against the war, among other reasons because no notice or reason for the war was given in England. Is sending a Minute asking for European Regiments. More troops will be needed in Persia, refers to Major Hill's report and Lieutenant Ballard's paper. Has not heard from Outram since he arrived at Bushire. Comments on the cost of the Persian Expedition. The agreement with the Dost has been sealed, Canning has taken the opportunity to minute at some length on Indian relations with Herat. General Outram is to go to Rajpootana, and Sir Henry Lawrence will become Chief Commissioner of Oudh. Nothing has yet been decided about Hyderabad. Canning regrets that the Court has told the Oudh Royal Family that the question of a grant of a landed estate rests with the Government of India. The Governor General is unwilling to place land, duties and powers in the hands of the King and his creatures. Has received the Memorial of the King's complaints, there has been some delay in answering it. Believes that only one case gives ground for grievance, the appropriation of one of the Palaces by Mr Jackson which had been restored to the King by General Outram. The Palace will of course be returned. Is curious to learn the solution of Duleep Sing's forged letter. Sir John Bowring has written of an attempt to poison the whole community at Hong Kong by putting arsenic into the bread. The dose was however so strong that no-one died. Asks for steamers, there is now not one available capable of taking a company to sea.

25. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 23 Feb 1857. Canning understands that General Outram's project of a campaign in Afghanistan in the autumn has found favour in Downing street. Canning is strongly opposed to this scheme, has written against it frequently, and now repeats his views in the Minute on the Peshawur agreement. He is supported by all his colleagues in his opposition, in the case of Mr Grant with some qualification. Canning objects to any proposal to rescue Herat from Persia, or an attack upon Persia itself by means of a march through Afghanistan. Hopes the Court will be satisfied with the Peshawur Agreement, praises the negotiators and their reports. Sir John Bowring's requisitions for China have grown from one European Regiment to 5,000 men and steamers. Involved with Persia, India cannot do anything in the matter except make Hong Kong safe. Canning has been alarmed by a report from Captain Rogers in England that the Government of India will not be given additional steamers, owing to the amalgamation of the two Navies. The situation is embarrassing already, the Pegu Reliefs from Madras are crippled, and the Bengal Regiments, especially the 47th which has been in Pegu for three years are impatient. Already there are no ships available for hire. The embarrassment will be increased if the Bengal Division for Persia has to spread the voyage to Bushire over two months or more for want of transport to make it in one trip. There has been an unpleasant incident over the 2nd Grenadiers at Barrackpore, and a rumour which was spread and proved to be well-founded that the cartridges of the new Enfield musket were greased with beef fat. The Government were in the wrong by allowing the material to be used, and immediately ordered the sepoys to provide their own grease. The discontent of the men at Barrackpore was then directed against the paper of the cartridges. Does not think the objection will spread through the army, practising parties from each Regiments are loading and firing away all day at Dum Dum. The serious part of the affair is the temper of the 2nd Grenadiers. They pretended to believe that an attack was intended on their caste. A meeting of delegates from the four regiments at Barrackpore was held at night, the men with their faces muffled, and the leaders instigating them to rise against their officers. There have been incendiary fires at Barrackpore and Raneegunge and the telegraph damaged. General Hearsey has managed very well, he paraded the Brigade and told them their fears were nonsense, and their plans detected. Both Canning and Hearsey think there is much more than cartridges at the bottom of the affair, thinks the whole Regiment is disaffected. Nothing can be done in the way of punishment unless a sepoy can be proved to have taken part in the meeting, and at present there is no proof. The two wings of the Regiment have been brought together and are being watched. Canning was impressed by the feebleness of the native officer. Scindia is in Calcutta, and his remarkable Minister Dinkur Rao, comments.

26. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 8 Mar 1857. Canning has studied the papers on the gold coinage, and is not certain if it would be acceptable to the people of India. Only pure gold coin would serve. He thinks the people do not use gold coins as a medium of buying and selling, but collect them to be hoarded as an investment. If the coins were accepted however they would be preferred to the present gold mohur; and they would relieve the pressure on the Mint, which cannot cope with the demand for silver coins. Will make further inquiries. Comments on the design and cost of the tunics for the Native Infantry and the Europeans. The Court announces Medical reform, with increased expense. The reform is most necessary, but the Government of India should decide when extra expense is to be incurred. The estimates being prepared will show a large deficit as the result of 1856-57, not much less than 190 lacs, though this includes the crore for Public Works and the whole of the cost of the war. Recommends increase in the Import duties. The King of Oudh has not mentioned that he has given a power of attorney to Nusseer Ood Deen. The Governor General has told the King that he will, if the King wishes, consider the Memorial by the Royal Family sent out by the mail of 26 Jan as coming from the King, but that in future the Governor General will not receive communications in the King's name from both London and Calcutta. The King or his advisers have put out a rival to the 'Blue Book' printed in the type and size of a genuine Parliamentary one, only not blue. Canning has not seen it yet, he hears it has passages very offensive to the East India Company and its officers. Canning will not take any steps in the matter of the King's endowment until he has seen the book. Meanwhile the King has not used any of his stipend, and none of his people have referred to it. There is no news from China later than 17 Feb when all was quiet at Hong Kong. Sykes will have heard from Bombay of General Outram's march upon Barazgoon, which is only known in Calcutta by telegraph. It seems well done. The additional European Regiment asked for by General Outram will be sent from Madras and not Pegu. Is glad to hear that he is to be given steamers for the Bay of Bengal. Canning shares Sykes indignation at the circumstantial lie about Rajpootana which appeared in the 'Calcutta Morning Chronicle', which is now defunct. The newspapers in India are a problem, they are full of categorical lies, put in haphazardly, and Government contradictions are more likely to encourage than repress them. Believes it best to leave the papers alone, or to have a Government sheet like the 'Moniteur' which should announce without comment what the Government wished to have known. Canning believes that the Indian is the only quasi-despotic Government without such a sheet. The half-and-half connection with the 'Friend of India' has done more harm than good. In his last letter Canning reported what had been happening at Barrackpore, in the lines of the 2nd, and 34th Regiments, and at Raneegunge. He did not report however, as of no great importance that there was some reason to believe that messengers had been sent from Barrackpore to incite the sepoys at Berhampore and Dinapore. However nothing certain could be learned of the messengers, and the Colonel of the Regiment at Berhampore declared his men proof against incitement. Describes the mutiny of the 19th Native Infantry at Berhampore. Because there are no European Regiments near at hand, Canning has decided to march the 19th Native Infantry to Barrackpore to be disbanded. Describes his arrangements. Believes the Colonel, Mitchell, of the 19th Native Infantry has been at fault. Some delay will elapse before the Regiment can be disbanded, while carriage is collected to take them to Barrackpore. Scindia is still in Calcutta, describes his activities. Major Davidson to be appointed to Hyderabad. Canning thinks Sykes has Judged General Stalker harshly, although he is not a great strategist.

27. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 23 Mar 1857. Canning has nothing important to report about the Barrackpore Regiments of the 19th Native Infantry. The Court of Inquiry is closed, disbandment seems indicated, General Anson agrees. There will be an inquiry into Lieutenant Colonel Mitchell's conduct. Attempts are being made to tamper with another regiment, the 63rd. Does not know where the origin of the movement lies, how far it is religious and how far political. There is a rumour among the sepoys and in the Calcutta Bazaar that Canning came to India under an engagement to convert the whole native Army within two years. Imagines Sykes is proud of the Bombay Army's success in Persia. Canning has pressed his request for steamers which are most important for the despatch of the Bengal Division. Outram has written of the Force he wishes for an advance upon Shiraz in the spring. An expedition against the Bozdars, a tribe on the Western Frontier had been carried out, with 40 Government casualties. The Wuzerees, an Afghan tribe, but independent, are the next to be dealt with, and then the Frontier will be in order. These two expeditions, and the Meeranzaie operation, have been sanctioned close together, so that the Irregular Force on the Frontier may be reduced to send troops to Persia with little risk. Comments on the death of Mr Boileau, which was the fault of Boileau himself. Has postponed sending the tariff scheme. Sir Henry Lawrence took office in Lucknow on the 20th.

28. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 9 Apr 1857. The disbandment of the 19th Native Infantry has passed off without any disturbance, describes it. The Regiment were undoubtedly led on by the 34th Native Infantry, and a better Commanding Officer than Mitchell might have prevented the trouble. For these reasons Canning tempered the Regiment's punishment with mercy. The punishment has had a marked effect on the other Regiments which have become orderly and respectful, with the exception of the 34th Native Infantry. Reports the attack of a sepoy of the 34th Native Infantry on his Adjutant and Serjeant, and the refusal of the Quarter Guard to act. There is strong evidence that the night before the disbandment of the 19th Native Infantry some of the 34th Native Infantry went to the Camp of the 19th, and urged the men to murder their officers, and to resist disarming. It is also reported, though not certainly, that some men of the 34th Native Infantry came on parade armed with loaded muskets on the morning of the 31st. General Hearsey wisely refused to investigate. Canning has no expectation that enough can be proved against the 34th to disband them, but hopes to weed them effectually. Fears that the Colonel of the 34th Native Infantry, Wheler, will prevent the Regiment being brought into good discipline. He is an excellent and conscientious man, but his views of his obligations as a Christian are not in Canning's opinion reconcilable with his duty as the Commanding Officer of a sepoy Regiment. The Governor General has not been able to find any political agency behind the disturbances, and is inclined to attribute them more to religion and caste than he did formerly. Proposes to replace the 19th Native Infantry by a Sikh Corps. Has just heard that a peace treaty has been signed by Ferook Khan and Lord Cowley; Canning is delighted, and hopes for ratification. Outram will probably take Mohummerah long before his hand can be stayed. Regrets General Stalker's death, he knows no details except that Stalker and Commodore Ethersey killed themselves.

29. Copy letter to Colonel Sykes, 24 Apr 1857. Canning is pleased with the peace treaty. The terms are all that could reasonably be desired, and are more than he expected as far as Herat is concerned. There is an unfortunate ambiguity, in that the 5th Article calls Herat a part of Afghanistan, and the following Articles treat it as a separate country. The Amir may ask for an interpretation. The Governor General has called upon the Amir to observe the Armistice, but does not propose to end the subsidy until sometime after the ratifications have been exchanged. It will be useful to have a hold over him during the settlement of the succession to Herat, and it will be useful to treat him with liberality. The question of who is to govern Herat is difficult, Canning would advocate the man with the strongest party, and hopes that eventually Herat will be incorporated into Afghanistan. Gholab Sing has had an attack of palsy, and is said to be dying; if he does, there will probably be disturbances in Cashmere. The Nizam too is in a bad way, but Major Davidson does not expect trouble there he will recognize the eldest of the two illegitimate sons at once. Praises the operations at Mohummerah, particularly by the Navy. The Governor General reports that Sir Henry Leeke has completely cleared himself of blame for the delays at Reshire. But Leeke has no claim to a KCB. All is quiet at Barrackpore. The Jemadar who commanded the Quarter Guard has been hanged, and at the gallows confessed his crime and the justice of his punishment. The effect upon the troops has been very great. There is not enough evidence to disband the 34th Native Infantry, some course short of disbandment will be carried out. The Bishop of Calcutta wishes to have a Coadjutor, praises the Bishop, and supports the scheme. Lady Canning thanks Sykes for the papers on the Scind antiquities.

30. Copy letter to Mr R D Mangles, 19 May 1857. Canning looks forward to corresponding with Mangles, wishes he could begin with a more pleasant subject. Describes the disbandment of the men of the 34th Native Infantry who were in the lines at Barrackpore when the mutinous exhibition of the sepoy took place. At Barrackpore there is every sign that insubordination has been satisfactorily repressed. Meanwhile there has been a much more serious mutiny at Meerut. The outbreak took place on the 10th, but the Government has not yet any full written report of the proceedings. Private letters received during the last 48 hours and the telegraph have enabled the Government to put into a narrative all that is known for certain. Two Native Infantry Regiments and part of the Light Cavalry Regiment from Meerut have joined with three Native Infantry Regiments at Delhi and hold the city. They have set up the King's son as ruler, but beyond that show no signs of a plan of action. They cannot act as long as they remain unsupported, and as long as the troops of Government are not distracted by any spread of the rebellion to other Regiments of which there is no present symptom. Agra is well in hand, owing to Mr Colvin's admirable courage, firmness and tact. Oudh is uneasy and doubtful, at Lucknow Sir Henry Lawrence has played a difficult game with great boldness and judgment. If matters are not quickly concluded at Delhi, there will be trouble with the Oudh Talookdars and others, and especially in that unprotected tract from Agra southwards, Allahabad, Benares and Patna. Between Barrackpore and Agra there is only one European Regiment. The spreading rumours of native successes may lead to more disasters and horrors. For this reason Canning attaches the highest importance to the recapture of Delhi. Has done all he can to collect European Regiments; they will come from Madras, Rangoon, Bombay and Bushire, Ceylon, and he has asked General Ashburnham and Lord Elgin for the troops on the way to China. Another European Regiment comes from Pegu, and one from Kurrachee. Martial Law has been proclaimed in the Meerut District. Summary Court Martials of 5 are made convenable by any Commanding Officer. All the river steamers have been collected to transport Regiments up the country. Many other smaller precautions are being taken, and each telegraphic message from Agra and Meerut is more and more reassuring. Expects hourly to hear of the Commander in Chief's arrival at Meerut. Fear of some attempt upon the caste of the sepoys seems to be growing stronger. Asks for three European Regiments to be raised for Bengal immediately. Is sending the Police Despatch

31. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 20 May 1857. Canning will send Government's opinion of the Kumaon Iron ores at an early date.

32. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 20 May 1857. Canning has no further details from Meerut and Delhi, except the names of those who have escaped from Delhi. All is quiet at Agra, Benares, Allahabad and in Oudh. In Calcutta there is something very like a panic, though there is no need for alarm for the Presidency. One of the last reports from the Bazaar is that the Governor General has ordered beef to be thrown into the Tanks to pollute the Hindus who bathe there, and that on the Queen's Birthday all the grain shops are to be closed to drive the people to eat unclean food. Men who should know better are saying that each fable should be contradicted by proclamation, and are arming themselves because this is not done. Canning has not heard from the Commander in Chief but thinks he has gone to Umballa and not Meerut. Colvin reports that there will be a short delay in the advance on Delhi, he does not give a reason. Canning will continue to urge the utmost speed.

33. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 4 Jun 1857. Canning has just heard of General Anson's death, which is a great blow. Major General Barnard is to take command of the Force against Delhi. Major General Reed, of the Peshawur Division has left for Umballa or Kurnaul as Provincial Commander in Chief. Colonel Sydney Cotton is to take command of General Reed's Division. Major General Penny is to supersede General Hewitt at Meerut. Sir Patrick Grant is to come to Calcutta immediately, as Acting Commander in Chief. The panic in Calcutta has to some extent subsided. Hopes the changes ordered in the North West will take effect without delay, but the telegraph is precarious and Mr Colvin has not yet succeeded in establishing a reliable communication between Agra and Headquarters though Sir John Lawrence's messages arrive. The eyes of all are turned to Delhi, the tide will not turn until Delhi is taken. On the 30th the mutineers were defeated about 5 miles from Delhi. Reports agree that the mutineers in Delhi are quarrelling amongst themselves and have no organisation. Canning hopes they will fall quickly as every day makes the situation worse. It was a mistake to wait for the siege guns. In the Punjab Sir John Lawrence has kept down any extensive rising, his policy of disarming the native Regiments is right for that Province where there are most Europeans, it would be impossible in Bengal. South of Delhi as far as Benares the state of things deteriorates. At Agra the Lieutenant Governor has disarmed his two native Regiments. Sir Hugh Wheeler is in danger at Cawnpore. Sir Henry Lawrence has made himself fairly strong at Lucknow, but the Province depends upon the doubtful fidelity of the Irregulars. Allahabad is weak in Europeans and ought to have been reinforced but for the greater need of Cawnpore. Canning has authorised Sir H Lawrence to abandon Lucknow and retire to Allahabad if he wishes. Benares is still quiet. In and around Calcutta the feeling of the sepoys appears excellent. Several Corps have volunteered to serve against the mutineers, this has encouraged Canning to send Europeans northwards. Westwards all is well. In Central India some of the Gwalior Contingent has been doubtful, but Scindia is as staunch as ever. There have been some desertions among the troops at Nusseerabad. The last fortnight has been a terrible lesson, the sense of security has gone for many years. It is no comfort that the better part of the population is well affected, and that the rebels are disorganized. A large European Force must be sent without delay. At least 10 additional European Infantry Regiments should be added to the permanent Bengal Establishment, and for the re-establishment of order, at least 12, and a Regiment of Cavalry. By degrees Commanding Officer's Regiments should replace the greater part of the Royal Regiments, to reduce the cost; and Canning will reduce the Line Regiments from 1,000 to 800 men. Canning would also like to see two Queen's Regiments at Madras in addition. Hopes to obtain the China troops, but it depends upon Lord Elgin, and if they come they should be released as soon as possible. All the reinforcements near at hand are pouring in. The Cape is the only remaining source of aid. The soldiers are being sent up country by steamers and by every beast and carriage obtainable. The sepoys have cut the telegraph between Cawnpore and Agra. Canning asks for indulgence for the Local Governments in the matter of Reports and official letters; will remind Colvin of his duty in this respect.

34. Copy of a memorandum to R D Mangles, 19 Jun 1857. On the arrest of the King of Oudh. Gives the reasons for confining the King and four of his suite in Fort William. The King has the use of the Governor General's house, and is accompanied by the courtiers he chose to accompany him. All are well treated, and if matters settle down they will not be detained for long. The man who claimed to be an emissary from the King has escaped, there will be a Court Martial.

35. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 19 Jun 1857. Canning still has not heard of the fall of Delhi. There has been another British success outside the walls. News from the Punjab, Delhi and Agra now comes to Calcutta most quickly via Bombay, the post and telegraph being interrupted north of Benares and Allahabad. The mutineers in Delhi have already lost 31 guns, and have probably 25 left. Regrets the delay in moving on Delhi, which seems to be due to waiting for the Siege Train and for carriage for the Europeans. Canning believes that except for one young officer none of the Army Staff thought of the political dangers of delay. Canning praises Sir J Lawrence and wishes he could have been nearer Headquarters. Sir John has not apparently allowed in his estimate of the time required to move the Army for the recent abolition of the Transport Establishment. In the Punjab there is anxiety about Peshawur, but Canning is sure that Edwardes and Nicholson can deal with it. There is no need to fear the Amir. In Rajpootana all is well. In Central India the Bengal Regiments at Neemuch have mutinied. The Cavalry of the Malwa Contingent have mutinied. Scindia and Holkar are quite firm, but Colonel Durand mistrusts Holkar's troops. Agra was quiet on the 12th, Lucknow and Cawnpore are in a state of siege. Nearly all Oudh is in disorder. Describes the mutiny at Allahabad, the vital Fort is safe in the hands of Colonel Neill. A column will be collected there under Brigadier General Havelock, which will relieve Lucknow and Cawnpore, if they are still besieged. Between Allahabad and Benares there has been terrible anarchy. At Benares all is well, in spite of the disarming of the 37th. Brigadier Ponsonby lost his head and gave up his command in the middle of the proceedings. He has been replaced by Colonel Gordon of the Sikh Regiment. There is still imminent danger of an outbreak below Benares, especially at Berhampore. Europeans have been sent to hold Moorshedabad, because of the political consequences of it falling to the Muslims. Canning hates having to refuse daily the prayers of the Europeans in outstations for protection, but the small force of soldiers must be kept together. When communications with the North West are safe, moveable columns can travel across the land suppressing disorder and violence. At many outstations blood has been shed, and this will continue. Great exertions have been made to move treasure from small stations to large ones, and this will help. It will be a long and bloody business to re-establish order. A Commission should be established to find and punish mutineers, there are lives to be avenged. Luckily the obstinacy of the rebels at Delhi has prevented them profiting from the miserable Proclamation put out at Agra on 25 May. The conduct of the King of Delhi and his family must be the subject of a separate enquiry. In Calcutta there has been a return of panic, greater than before. General Hearsey reported a threatened rising among the Regiments at Barrackpore, he was sent troops and the Regiments were disarmed at Barrackpore and Calcutta. Canning is not sure that the measure was justified, and fears its effect in Lower Bengal. The men of the 43rd are completely panic-stricken. Volunteers have been enrolled in Calcutta as Guards. A check has been put upon the Press, cites some examples of the harm done by them.

36. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 20 Jun 1857. Canning is glad to hear that four Regiments are to be sent immediately to India. Thinks he should ask for another Regiment of Cavalry in addition to those asked for on 4 Jun. Asks Mangles to read a copy of a letter to the President for the principal events of the last fortnight, he is so hard-pressed with writing. Calcutta still has no news of Delhi later than the 8th. South of Benares the country is settling, and the telegraph is working. Allahabad is secure, and Colonel Havelock is about to take charge of the Column. Canning is anxious for news from Sir H Lawrence, he is not worried about Lucknow but about Sir Henry's health. Canning expects a storm of indignation about the curbing of the Press. Sir Patrick Grant has arrived in Calcutta, he has reassured the Governor General about the Madras Army. Lady Canning and the Governor General are both well.

37. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 20 Jul 1857. The report of the fall of Delhi has proved untrue. Believes it was a terrible error not to attack Delhi on the 8th or 9th; but that now reinforcements must be awaited. It is difficult to reinforce Delhi from Allahabad or Cawnpore for some time. Havelock must go to Lucknow after Cawnpore. Canning asks for another 15,000 men. If the worst happened, and Delhi was not taken until the cold weather, rebellion may spread to Southern India. But if Delhi falls soon all should be well. If Scindia and Holkar are not too far committed to hostilities by the time Delhi falls matters will right themselves in Central India. Havelock has done admirably since he left Allahabad. The rumour about the massacre at Cawnpore is confirmed, 300 or 400 must have died. One officer is said to have escaped. Canning writes that it is impossible to think steadily of anything with these horrors before him. The Governor General hopes to hear that Havelock has disposed of Bithoor and its owner before turning to Lucknow. Sir Henry Lawrence died of a wound on the 4th. Of all men in India he is the one whose loss is least reparable at present, not excepting his brother John. He would have been invaluable in the peacification of the districts. Lawrence and Canning settled long ago that Major Banks, not Gubbins, should succeed at Lucknow. Agra has been threatened, but is not in danger; there is a great shortage of money there. All is well at Allahabad. Canning has made Neill a Brigadier General so that he may assume command should anything happen to Havelock. Benares is being made secure. Chunar will probably be dismantled. The Gurkhas are on their way to Goruckpore. Lucknow will be settled one way or the other before they could reach it, and they should not be exposed to large bodies of rebels without support. Further south all is quiet, though Patna and Berhampore are not to be relied upon. Colonel Durand has been driven from Indore by Holkar's troops, there was also mutiny at Mhow. Durand thinks Holkar was involved, but there is some evidence the other way. It is unfortunate that the Column from Bombay had to put down the mutinous Cavalry of the Hyderabad Contingent, it might have saved Mhow and Indore. All is well in the Punjab. Sir John Lawrence has written privately advising that if matters get worse, Peshawur should be given up to the Amir. Canning does not agree, any giving up of territory would be fatal to the minds of those who doubted the continuance of British rule. Canning would prefer to see the Trans-Indus country held with local Punjab Regiments.

38. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 8 Aug 1857. There is no improvement in affairs to announce. General Barnard died of cholera on 5 Jul. Brigadier Chamberlain the Adjutant General was severely wounded about the same time. General Reed has left the Camp sick. Brigadier Wilson has been appointed to command the Army before Delhi, he has a good reputation, but Canning fears he will not assault with his present force, and unless reinforced may retire upon Kurnaul. This is an alarming prospect. Canning has urged Sir John Lawrence to send reinforcements, and has urged Wilson not to withdraw upon Kurnaul, but if he must move, go to Agra or Allygurh. It has been necessary to keep troops in Bengal, describes affairs in Bengal, following on the affair at Dinapore. General Lloyd was immediately superseded, and will be court-martialled. Sir James Outram has arrived, and has been given command of the two Military Divisions of Dinapore and Cawnpore. It is vitally important to stop disorder and rebellion below Benares. Laments the weakness of the Government forces, in native troops as well as in Europeans. Is trying to raise a body of Yeomanry Cavalry, the leading spirit is an ex-indigo planter who is the 2nd in command. Benares and Allahabad are safe. The intention to dismantle Chunar is shelved. The Gurkhas are on their way to Goruckpore. They do not like moving more than 6 miles a day, and suffer far more from the heat than Europeans. The position of the troops with Havelock is anxious, he has had to retreat to the river. He cannot receive any reinforcements for several weeks. He has been given some guns and a few Europeans, and will probably move forward again to Lucknow, which does not expect to hold out beyond the first or second week of Aug. At Agra the Europeans are in the Fort, no longer threatened, and they should be able to hold their own against any force that does not have a heavy siege gun. General Neill holds Cawnpore, with less than 300 men. Holkar has not been disloyal, he seems to have done all he can to help. Of Scindia less is known, but he seems to be keeping his people quiet. News from Nagpore and Hyderabad is good, but there will be danger at Hyderabad and through the Deccan until the end. A temporary Lieutenant Governor has been appointed to control the anarchy in the country round Allahabad and Benares, Mr Grant has been sent. He will exercise the powers of Mr Colvin until Colvin is no longer shut up in Agra. Cultivation must begin again, or there will be famine and pestilence. News comes very irregularly from the Punjab, two Regiments have been disarmed at Jhelum. Three men have been hanged for inciting the troops in the Fort at Calcutta to mutiny. The Body Guard have been disarmed, but behaved well and are kept on duty.

39. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 9 Aug 1857. The 'Shannon' has arrived, with Lord Elgin and 1700 men, mainly seamen and marines. The men will be formed into a Naval Brigade with 68 pounders, under Captain W Peel and will be sent to Allahabad immediately. Canning is delighted at this unexpected reinforcement, which will be most valuable. Lord Elgin has asked to be sent back to China, he will for a time remain in Calcutta. The 'Pearl' and the 'Shannon' may both remain in India. Canning will supply monthly returns of exports and imports as requested.

40. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 24 Aug 1857. Canning thanks Mangles for his letter of 10 Jul, is pleased that his actions are approved. Has spent the morning considering a scheme of Outram's for the relief of Lucknow, in company with Sir Colin Campbell. General Havelock has again retreated. Outram proposes to march north from Jounpore to Lucknow, Canning thinks he ignores the difficulties which he will meet. Things generally are better in Bengal, Lucknow and Cawnpore are now the chief worries. Sir C Campbell has just arrived, Canning supposes the next mail will bring out notice of his appointment. The Governor General regrets having had to censure Colonel Birch in a recent Minute; he has been leniently dealt with, but his antecedents justify this.

41. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 9 Sep 1857. General Outram is near Cawnpore with reinforcements for Havelock. He has abandoned the advance by Jounpore and will cross the river at Cawnpore. The news from Lucknow is better, the besiegers have been beaten back and the nearest guns disabled. The problem remains of removing the Garrison of 300 English, 350 natives, and 450 women and children though the enemy's country. The news from Delhi is good, the besiegers are being reinforced, and the rebels attacks are fewer and less successful. There have been signs of a disposition to receive overtures from the King's family to the General Officer Commanding which Canning has stopped peremptorily. If Lucknow is relieved and the Garrison taken to safety, Outram can clear and keep open the Trunk Road from Cawnpore to Agra, and clear the Doab. This is more immediately important than the recovery of Rohilcund. More troops are needed, even for the advance on Lucknow Outram has had to reduce the Allahabad Garrison far below its complement of 600, though it will be strengthened by some small detachments and the Naval Brigade. When the additional Regiments do arrive they will be collected at Allahabad under the Commander in Chief. Some of the country in Bengal and Behar is in a very critical state. Goruckpore has been deserted by the Civil Officers. The Arrah District is unsettled, and the rich opium country South East of Goruckpore is in danger. A small Naval Brigade under the Captain of the 'Pearl' has been made and will be sent to Chupra. Canning is anxious for the arrival of the China Expedition, the Adventure and Assistance. Risks are daily increasing, alarms have come from Assam. It is an immense relief to know that the Mohurrum has ended without disturbance at Hyderabad or in the Deccan. Lord Elgin and General Ashburnham have behaved most generously in difficult circumstances. General Ashburnham has sent most of his Artillery, and Canning will after all retain his Sappers if they come. Mr Colvin has had a relapse. He has asked for a steamer to bring down the women and children, and also himself. Canning has had to refuse, the move would be too unsafe. Mr Grant has hardly begun work, he has been ill and detained at Benares. He will be most helpful, especially as he agrees so well with General Outram. Comments on the appointment of a Chief of Staff. Nothing would induce Canning to raise any question of a stretch of authority in such circumstances, especially as the Army under Sir Colin Campbell will be essentially a Queen's Army. The whole of the Headquarters Staff is at Delhi, and the Staff at Calcutta is too weak to give the help expected of .them. The Commander in Chief is occupied with much detail which should not come to him, as is the Governor General. Believes nevertheless that the transport of troops to Allahabad will be found satisfactory. Has dealt with all the points in Mangles' letter except the matter of coal and steam tugs at Ceylon which shall not be forgotten. Mentions temporary barracks being set up. New boats are being built for the rivers, and are to be fitted with locomotive engines from the Railway. One of the greatest difficulties with which the Government of India will have to contend is beginning to appear; the violent feelings of the Europeans, especially in Calcutta, against all natives. Those who ought to know that the British cannot rule India without native aid urge the proscription at least every Mahommedan in the Empire. They are impatient not only of any talk of mercy, but of justice. Is afraid that the English Regiments may catch this spirit. The 10th, at Dinapore have murdered some sepoys who had given such proofs as they could of their fidelity.

42. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 9 Sep 1857. Canning is returning to Sir James Melvill the papers referred to in Mangles separate letter of 27 Jul. No-one but Canning has seen them, or knows about their contents. Canning considers the measure recorded to have been a most wise one for the State,. and no more than just to the individual concerned. Regrets that Sir Henry Lawrence did not have to learn of the Court intentions, which would have wiped out for ever some painful recollections which pressed upon him. It would have been the greatest satisfaction and comfort to Lord Canning to have had Sir Henry in the position designed; Canning knows no other man of whom he can say the same, not even Sir John Lawrence, who, though a stronger man in some things, has disqualifications from which Sir Henry was entirely free. The Governor General will probably make a proposal by the next mail about the Lawrence Asylum as connected with Sir Henry's memory.

43. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 24 Sep 1857. Canning sends a map showing the disposition of the Army in India at the outbreak of the Mutiny at Meerut; the Regiments mutinied and disarmed and the amount of European troops arrived up to 19 Sep. The map has only just been finished, and Canning cannot answer for its complete accuracy. Also sends tabular returns of the number and disposition of all troops in Bengal. (No papers annexed.)

44. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 25 Sep 1857. The mail brings the sad news of Mr Colvin's death. Canning has arranged that Agra should have a Military Dictator in command so long as it is in its present detached condition. The Governor General intends to offer Mr Colvin's post to Sir J Lawrence, but fears he will not accept. Canning was surprised not to hear from the Court about the Chief of Staff; General Mansfield has been appointed. There are signs of irritation at the appointment, which Canning will not tolerate. Sends some papers (not annexed), being three private letters and the latest telegram from the North West. The news from Lucknow and Delhi is excellent.

45. Copy letter to Mr Vernon Smith, 8 Oct 1857. Sent to Mr Mangles. Within 24 hours after the departure of the mail the news of the first entrance into Delhi reached Calcutta. It was telegraphed to the mouth of the river, but the steamer was already out at sea, and the fact was signalled with flags. Canning hopes the message was understood, though the news will have come from Bombay by the same mail. The same day an account of the success at Lucknow came. Canning gives further news of Delhi. The rebels are scattered, and show no sign of having chosen a rallying point; they will probably go to Oudh, where they could be a serious trouble. The first success at Lucknow did not produce all the results Canning expected. The Garrison is safe, but the rebels are not dispersed, are probably more numerous than reported, and have Mann Singh with them. Canning is greatly disappointed that such a strong European force should be shut up in Lucknow. Regrets Neill's death. The messages from Lucknow are not very clear. Sends the Notification about Delhi and Lucknow (not annexed) in which he stresses that Delhi fell to the Army of the North West Provinces and the Punjab alone. He wishes this to be understood by the native Princes. Describes the condition of Lower Bengal, still uneasy in parts. Peel is installed as Commandant at Allahabad, and Colonel O'Brien has been sent to an outpost at Futtehpore. India has received men, horses and £60,000 from Sir George Grey at the Cape. Canning has declined an offer to send sepoy regiments to the Cape. Those sepoys which are loyal must be kept, and those suspected of disaffection must be got rid of for ever, it would do no good to send them away for a time. Discusses places to which sepoys could be transported. Canning thanks Vernon Smith for what he has done in financial matters. The Loan is improving. The Governor General hopes to spend a few days at the Sandheads he has not been well.

46. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 22 Oct 1857. Canning was not well enough to write by the last mail, but now the cold weather has begun and he hopes to recover without leaving Calcutta. All is well at Delhi, Colonel Greathed's column has done good service. Many of the rebels have moved off to Rohilcund, but many more are making for Oudh. Already so many are besieging Outram that he is shut close within the Residency. Communication with the Alum Bagh, where Outram deposited his sick with a strong detachment, is cut off from the Residency. Outram estimated his supplies would last until about 6 Nov. The strength of the rebels is concentrated against the Residency, the Alum Bagh is unmolested and the whole length of the road from Cawnpore to Alum Bagh is open and undisturbed. The chief difficulty in relieving the Residency is the length of the streets through which a relieving force must pass. Sends a plan of the City drawn from memory by Mr Simson. The Commander in Chief favours the plan of crossing the Goomtee below the City, and recrossing it again opposite the Residency. Describes the movement of troops. The collection of the two strong Brigades for which Outram has asked is not possible in the time allowed. Agra is probably safe, and Greathed's column may join the Lucknow Relieving Force. Mr Grant is uneasy at the mutineers and others on the borders of Oudh adjoining Azimgurh and Jounpore, Canning thinks his fears are greater than the facts warrant. Describes the state of Bengal, still uneasy in parts, and the murder of two officers by the 32nd Native Infantry which is now disarmed. Captain Hopkinson writes uneasily about Burma, the 'Penelope' has been ordered to Rangoon. When the promised gun boats arrive from England, a more effective force can be sent to Rangoon and if necessary to Moulmein. Meanwhile foreigners will not be allowed into the interior, and landings will be watched. Canning has received warning of 25 men and a cargo of revolvers having left France, but nothing has arrived. The Governor General does not think it likely that D'Orgoni will come by the mail steamer. Village responsibility will be provided for; but Canning thinks it is too early to disarm generally. In Oudh every man must be disarmed, but not in the North West Provinces until the Police are much stronger. The Punjab could be disarmed because the forces of Government were so much stronger. Canning promises that no deserving native, Prince or subject, shall go unrewarded; but Mann Singh has been on both sides, and the Rewah Rajah has been involved in a plot against Osborne. Osborne should be rewarded. The important chiefs should not be rewarded upon the first show of good will, their services are acknowledged and hints of future favour given, but the Governor General has not done anything that could look like a desire to buy them., the smaller people have been rewarded or promised reward where possible, but many of them are still inaccessible. The Regiments from England are beginning to arrive, the 'Golden Fleece' made the quickest passage of 69 days. Is glad that troops are to be sent to Bombay, things look bad in Rajpootana. Regrets the sending of 5 Batteries to Kurrachee, one at least would be better at Bombay. The iron supports and rafters for barracks would be most useful, but Canning does not think they will arrive in time. Comments on Sir George Clerk's letter on the Sikhs, agrees that they are dangerous, but does not think the danger immediate, and thinks the Regiments can be distributed so as to do no harm. At present there is no choice. Canning has heard nothing from Singapore about the Press Law, the Governor sent an article he considered offensive, but it is courteous compared to those printed in India. A copy of the petition for Canning's recall has come indirectly into the possession of Government, Canning will sent it to Mangles officially with a commentary by an early mail. It is still uncertain whether the King of Delhi was promised his life or not; if not, Canning does not see why he should be treated with more leniency than any other traitor or rebel, he deserves death more than any. Sends a copy of a letter to Sir George Grey at the Cape (not annexed) to show what will be done if the King has been promised his life. Asks for particulars of the experimental river gunboats.

47. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 9 Nov 1857. Mangles may have already heard of the departure of the Commander in Chief for Cawnpore and Lucknow. Describes Sir Colin's force, he is crossing the river at Cawnpore. He hopes to be able to relieve the Residency from the other side of the Goomtee. Communications with Outram are still uncertain, the last letter from him is dated 28 Oct when he urged that the Gwalior men should be disposed of before Lucknow is relieved, and states that by reducing rations the Garrison will last till near the end of November. Sir Colin will not wait for the Gwalior men, but has left General Windham in command at Cawnpore. Part of the Force destined for Lucknow were victorious, though with heavy loss, over the mutineers near Futtehpore. Besides Oudh there is danger from the Gwalior Troops and from the Dinapore sepoys, who may be joined by Koer Singh. Saugor and Rewah, and the Azimgurh and Jounpore Districts, and Goruckpore need aid. Canning fears he will not be able to repay his debt to Lord Elgin, by sending him men. He will send one or two Regiments to Bombay or Kurrachee. There has been a rising in the Punjab, but not a formidable one. Captain Lowe will call on Mangles, he can give information about the siege of Delhi. Sends a plan of Delhi (not annexed). There is nothing new in Bengal. The Commander in Chief was within a few yards of being captured by he mutineers near Benares. There is still risk of a disturbance near Chota Nagpore and the Cole country, Lieutenant Birch and the Shekawattee Battalion should keep things quiet there. Major Allen reports better of the Pegu Frontier than Captain Hopkinson. Discusses the scheme for giving relief from Government to sufferers by the Mutiny. It will be difficult to lay down a rule for those not in the service of Government, the Relief Committee is doing its work well in Calcutta but the members are annoyed that the Governor General has not handed over the whole of the funds sent by the Lord Mayor for distribution to Lahore, Bombay and elsewhere. The provisions of the Arms Act deals with all munitions of war. The sale of copper caps has been especially watched. The tale of the thousand Minié rifles sold to natives by a gunmaker in Calcutta is nonsense, sends a memorandum (not annexed). Asks Mangles to agree to the request for a Persian Medal. The recommendations for the Victoria Cross must wait until Canning can communicate with Outram, they are much too lavishly made. The Governor General and the Commander in Chief have agreed that there is no call for the suspension of promotion in the Bengal Army pending reorganization. There is nothing official from Delhi about the promise of his life to the King, Canning cannot explain how it came to have been given despite orders to the contrary issued long before. But the King was certainly promised his life, it is thought to have been done upon General Wilson's distinct authority. The Governor General hopes that the Court is prepared to pay something for all the Generals who are being sent to India. Horses are coming from the Cape, in larger numbers than was expected. They are also being sent from Australia, as a private speculation. Horses will come from the Stud, at a sacrifice to the future of the Stud. Asks for General Wilson to be recommended for a KCB.

48. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 9 Nov 1857. Canning has sent officially the copy of a petition for his recall, with his own notes. The petition reached him unofficially.

49. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 23 Nov 1857. Canning sends a papers on powder, harness, tent, and shot (not annexed). The supply of shot in Calcutta has fallen too low, the Governor General will see that it is kept up. The main stock has been moved to Allahabad. The bullet machine has been watched since the first. It will eventually be in the Fort, but there is no building nor any steam engine to work it there at present. It has been transferred from Dum Dum to Kossipore. It turns out about 20,000 bullets a day, though it is not working full strength. Paper is a greater difficulty, for the cartridges; asks for a supply from England.

50. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 11 Dec 1857. Canning hopes that his financial news will be satisfactory, four remittances of £250,000 each will suffice for India. Opium continues high, the Loan goes on steadily. The Bank has listened to reason and the terms of its Charter, and is at ease again. Cultivation in the Central and North West Provinces has been less impeded than appeared possible. Canning is sorry and greatly surprised that reasonable men in England have condemned the Orders of 31 Jul. Is confident that the Orders will be vindicated in the end. A Despatch is being sent to clear up a misapprehension as to the effect of the Orders upon Military authorities. The growth of the spirit of hostility and fixed, universal mistrust towards natives will raise up unending difficulties and danger in the path of English Government in India. The Orders were necessary because the powers which had been entrusted to solitary men, sometimes imperfectly known to Government and beyond its control were truly terrible, and were being abused with monstrous severity. The Orders were timely, because a sulky, terror stricken condition was coming over the people of the Lower Provinces. Sends copies of two Addresses received in the past 48 hours, comments on the signatories (not annexed). One Address shows anger with the noisy Europeans, and exasperation amongst a class who should be friends of Government. The Addresses are from Hindus, but one is expected from the Mussulmans. Asks Mangles to explain to Lord Macaulay the Regulation by which imprisonments were made, and why the Governor General did not suspend the Habeas Corpus. Sends some papers relating to Jung Bahadoor (not annexed). Canning does not know what to do about the marks of distinction for friendly Rajahs and Princes, an order invented for the purpose is never much appreciated, but Canning sees no other course. The good services of the Gurkhas are beginning to make the matter urgent. Mr Wake wishes to be in the Secretariat, Canning is making inquiries. To Mr Boyle the Governor General has been studiously civil, he does not know what more he can do at present. Rewards for such men must be granted later, when the compensation rules begin to be applied. The defence of Lucknow is as brilliant a passage of military history as any Canning knows, hopes Mangles will not think too much has been done for the Garrison. Sends various papers on Lucknow (not annexed). Outram should have sent his account but has not done so yet General Havelock died at Alum Bagh of dysentery. The Commander in Chief has defeated the Gwalior rebels but not before they had had some success against General Windham at Cawnpore. Nothing official has come about the Cawnpore casualties. Brigadier Wilson of Her Majesty's 64th is killed. There has been alarm at Benares about the force on the Azimghur Frontier. Comments on the mutinies at Chittagong and Dacca. Thanks Mangles for his confidence, and for his act in the matter of The Times.

51. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 23 Jan 1858. Canning apologises for not writing, but he has been ill. Mr George Campbell draws up the narratives of events, but he is to go to the North West, so some-one will be found for the job. In spite of the Court sending out furlough men the Government in the Upper Provinces is in great straits, and will have to draw largely upon the Bengal Service. The Commander in Chief is at Futtehghur. Explains why Oudh was decided upon for the campaign, in preference to Rohilcund. Any great delay in recovering Lucknow would be most dangerous politically. There is no such danger in a continuance of disorder in Rohilcund. Jung Bahadoor is near Oudh, and if the Province was left alone, it would be vain to disguise the Government's weakness from him. Canning has complete trust in Jung Bahadoor's sincerity, but does not wish to tempt him more than necessary. When Lucknow is recovered, it may be advisable to turn to Rohilcund. The Commander in Chief has between Allahabad and Agra, including General Outram's Division at Alumbagh, less than 23,000 men. He will have to leave garrisons along the line, and probably will not appear before Lucknow with more than 11,000 men. But he will be aided by the Nepalese and by Brigadier General Frank's Column. Progress being made above Allahabad is not so steady, nor the cooperation of the authorities so harmonious as Canning wishes, he is therefore moving to Allahabad himself to assume the Government of the North West Provinces. A good many reference to Calcutta will be saved, and the long delays removed. Canning will also be able to consider the recasting of the North West Government. Probably Allahabad will become the seat of the Local Government, especially as Delhi is given to the Punjab. Mr Grant will rejoin the Council. Canning praises his services in the Central Provinces. All is going well in Bengal, except in the Cole country near Chyebassa. Pegu has been secured. Sir H Rose's Brigade is moving quickly on Saugor and Jhansi. General Whitlock's force is not moving quite so fast. There have been some equivocal proceedings at Delhi in the matter of the Royal Family, it seems that ransom has been accepted for the life of the King youngest son, for a relative of the mother, and for her house and property by an officer who had no authority whatever to treat. An inquiry is being made. Meanwhile there is great indignation at the supposed refusal of all prize money to the troops, and the substitution of 6 months batta as a quittance. But the Governor General in Council cannot award more than 6 months batta. The interdict of prize extends only to property of the State. All the other property will be considered prize. The misunderstanding has arisen mainly from an ill-judged Field Order of General Wilson. There will be no difficulty in sending the King and his family to the Cape. Is sorry that there should be delay in the demolition and dishonour at Delhi, explains the reasons. Hopes that the Court will support the diversion of the Railway from Delhi to the line through the Doab, it has many advantages besides the dishonouring of Delhi. It will be impossible to send mutineers to the West Indies because the women will not go, and the Colonies object to receiving them without their wives. They will be sent to the Andamans. The site selected is Port Blair. The Settlement may become a depot from which men and women may be drafted to the Colonies. Regrets that the intelligent Andamanese who was brought to Calcutta became so ill that he had to be sent back, loaded with presents. Western Australia does not require the same conditions as the other Colonies in regard to the sepoy women, but refuses to be put to any expense whatever. The Loan goes forward steadily, but the Governor General does not think that India will be able to answer any drafts of the Company during the financial year. Dum Dum will be the Depot for the new Cavalry. A Commission on the re-organization of the Army will be appointed as soon as possible, at present no-one can be spared. Questions will be sent to selected officers, as a basis for the Commission to work on. Thinks that the Bengal Army should be dealt with first, and separately. Is collecting evidence on the causes of the Mutiny, a Commission will be formed to report. Understands that there is to be a 3rd Commission, to inquire into the losses of private persons. If this is done, the Government is committed to compensation. The Governor General believes that some latitude as to the proportion of losses to be paid must be allowed, for he fears that the amount of losses will be greater than Government can pay. First inquiries into losses should be done through the Collectors or Magistrates. The Government of India has no officers which can be spared for Commissions of this kind. The Governor General assumes that claims from natives are not excluded. Does not regret that he was asked to explain the Orders of 31 Jul. Would have deplored any condemnation of the measure by the Court. Thanks Mr Mangles for all his support.

52. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 17 Mar 1858. Lucknow is again in Government hands Jung Bahadoor has sent a message of congratulation. Large numbers of rebels are said to have left the City making for Rohilcund which was to be expected. Also expects them to make for Faizabad and Goruckpore. Asks Mangles to note a gallant action fought by Colonel Rowcroft's force at Amorha. The object at present is to prevent mutineers moving in large bodies. It will be patient but not difficult work to hunt them out from their homes later, Mr Cracroft Wilson is in charge of this and he will begin when Rohilcund has been disposed of. Is glad that Mangles agreed Lucknow should be dealt with first, rather than Rohilcund, the decision was unpopular in the North West and with the Commander in Chief Bundelcund is giving some uneasiness, Sir H Rose is doing well, but the Rajah of Chikari has been despoiled by the rebels with the government powerless to interfere. This will have a bad effect. Defends the Nepalese alliance. The results have been successful, Goruckpore recovered and the adjoining Oudh Frontier watched. It would have been unwise to refuse the offer, and leave Jung and his troops watching from their hills in a state of excitement and not in the best of humours. It has appeared that although the Nepalese men are excellent soldiers, their officers are worthless, their military science contemptible and their arms useless. They are terrified of Cavalry, and are not the united body, devoted to one head, which they have been assumed to be. The Egyptian horses should go to Bombay, no more are needed in Bengal at present. The 7th Hussars say they have never been better mounted, but the horses are all 3 year olds. Explains the story about the petition presented by the Christians of Kishnaghur. Canning did discourage the petitioners, because at the time the petition came affairs were at their very worst, and had the petitioners been attacked, Canning would have been powerless to protect them. Is sorry that Mangles has been ill.

53. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 1 May 1858. Canning apologises for not writing. Good news comes from all sides except from Shahabad. Koer Sing is now reported dead, and General Lugard will retrieve the disaster. Nevertheless the sepoys will probably escape from Jugdeespore to the wild country west of Mirzapore and do more damage. The new Commander in Chief works all day, but does not write Despatches. Asks Mangles not to listen to those who maintain the Government should have proclaimed pardon and restitution to all the Barons of Oudh, this would have been taken as weakness, especially when it was known how little punishment was inflicted upon the rebels at the capture of Lucknow. Sir E Lugard found that his Brigade, marching to the relief of Azimgurh, was spoken of by the Oudh chiefs as the remnant of the British flying from Lucknow. Had the Proclamation not required submission, and not used a tone of power and authority, it would have been assumed that the Government was very weak and ready to buy re-entry into Oudh at any price. The Proclamation shows the intention of doing more than justice for anyone who returns to orderly and peaceable courses Canning has no fear of the result, already great progress has been made. Things look well in Rohilcund. Describes troop movements. Rohilcund could not however have been left alone for 5 months. Sends papers on the policy in Rohilcund (not annexed). Mangles will be sorry to hear of the death of Sir William Peel, praises him.

53a. Copy letter to R D Mangles, 1 May 1858. Canning hopes that Mangles will approve of his course. He has not resigned. Owing to the breakdown of the mail of 24 Feb Canning did not hear of the new Government until the departure of a second mail from India. He wrote on 6 Apr that he would not resign unless told directly that this was desired by the Queen's Government. The letters received from Whitehall do not seem to have expected him to act otherwise. Thanks Mangles for his kind words. Private.

54. Copy letter to Sir F Currie, 29 Jun 1858. Canning thanks Currie for his letters. He has had a great deal of work during the past month, and has been more unwell than at any other time in India. The name of Lord Ellenborough's successor has not reached Allahabad. Thanks the Court for their Despatch and Resolution of which he heard on 10 May from Currie, though the papers have not arrived. Canning does not think he need add anything to his Despatch of the 17th. He had no doubts as to his course, but his way was made smoother by the nemesis which so quickly overtook the offender. Hopes the Court will approve of his actions.

55. Copy letter to Sir F Currie, 10 Jul 1858. Canning replies that he does not think that because Mr Ricketts is a Bengal man the next Member of Council should come from the North West Provinces. But it would be useful to have a man well acquainted with the Punjab, suggests Mr Montgomery. Canning has never had a colleague in the Council who had seen the Punjab, except General Anson who was only concerned with the military affairs of the Province. The Punjab is essentially an experiment in administration and politics, and experience from the Punjab would frequently be useful for other Provinces. The Foreign Secretary is too ardent a Punjab man to hear of any amendment, and has been away from the Punjab for 4 years. After Montgomery, recommends Edward Currie, W J Allen, C H Lushington, E Samuells, C Beadon; comments on these men. Also names and comments on E A Reade, Mr Harington, Mr Edmonstone, F Gubbins, Mr Muir.

56. Copy letter to Sir F Currie, 9 Aug 1858. Canning has already proposed the disbandment of the two remaining Regiments of Lieutenant Cavalry. Asks for 10 small instead of 5 larger Regiments of European Cavalry. Discusses the association of some unit of Irregular Cavalry attached permanently to the Europeans, hopes this will be left for the Indian authorities to decide. Has not heard before of the Committee appointed in England to consider the re-organization of the Army. Nevertheless the Governor General must continue to levy new troops and form them into Regiments The recruiting is going on well in Rohilcund and the Doab and Goruckpore. Has collected some views on the reorganization of the Army at Allahabad. The discovery of a plot among the Punjab Regiments in Dera Ishmael Khan has led Sir John Lawrence to press again for the disbandment of the Hindustani disarmed Regiments in the Punjab and Canning has agreed, though he hoped that Oudh would be under control before the discharged men returned home. Does not think the disaffection widespread in the Punjab. The critical time for the Sikh Regiments is the idle time when the fighting is over, especially if the European strength is hurriedly reduced. Hopes the Court will continue to raise European recruits. Regrets the hitch in the Artillery and Engineer arrangements, sends separately a Minute on the increase in Artillery. All is going well in Oudh, Fyzabad has been occupied; rain has delayed the occupation of Sultanpore. The Governor General has anticipated the Court's instructions on Mr Cracroft Wilson's commission. Will take every opportunity to relax severity, but it must not be done too soon. Fears that the amnesty was introduced too soon into Bundelcund, the rebels have been insolent though they are very weak. Will write about Dhar by another mail. The cession of Jhansi to Scindia would be a very suitable reward, but Canning does not see his way round the difficulty of the Customs line. If Jhansi was given up the line would move eastwards and follow the course of the Jumna to Mirzapore, and this would allow the western salt into Bengal by roads between Mirzapore and the Nerbudda. Canning suspects that Currie greatly overrates Holkar's claims on the Government. Asks Currie to allow a copy of a Despatch of 7 Jul on insinuations against the Supreme Council to be sent to General Low and Mr Dorin. Canning has been ill with feyer, but is recovered. Canning agrees with Currie's criticism of the Oudh Proclamation: that there was more to be surprised at in what it conferred upon the favoured Talookdars than in what it took away from others. The Governor General has not been able to trace the authorship of the sham Proclamation which first appeared in the Bombay Gazette and then in a Calcutta paper of 12 Jul, believes it was sent to Bombay from Lucknow.